Riverside Leave-No-Trace Wash-Up

Alexander Gill

July 23, 2025
Tips & Tricks
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Riverside Leave-No-Trace Wash-Up: A Cleaner Way to Camp

When Mia unzipped her tent after a long day of hiking along the river, she felt the grime of sweat, sunscreen, and trail dust caked on her skin. The cold river sparkled invitingly nearby, but she paused. She remembered the ranger’s words: “Keep the river clean. Wash 200 feet away.” That sparked a question in her mind—how do you clean up responsibly in the backcountry? That night, she learned the art of the Leave-No-Trace Wash-Up, and it changed how she camped forever.

This guide lays out how to responsibly wash up in the wilderness, focusing on the 200-foot rule, using a collapsible basin, and getting the biodegradable soap ratio just right. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a beginner camper, mastering these low-impact techniques helps protect our waterways and keeps your campsite fresh.

The 200-Foot Rule: Keep Waterways Wild

What It Means: The Leave No Trace principle recommends washing, brushing teeth, or disposing of wastewater at least 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) from any natural water source—rivers, lakes, or streams.
Why It Matters: Even biodegradable soap can harm aquatic life when introduced directly into rivers or lakes. Nutrients from food particles, toothpaste, or oils can disrupt ecosystems, leading to pollution, algae blooms, or illness in wildlife.
How to Do It:

Measure It Out: Before setting up camp, pace 70 steps or use a GPS watch to find the 200-foot boundary.
Plan Ahead: Pick a gentle slope with absorbent soil for your wash area. Avoid rocky or compacted ground that causes runoff.
Don’t Dump in the River: Always strain greywater and scatter it over a wide area away from camp and trails.

The Collapsible Basin Setup: Your Portable Sink

A collapsible basin is a lightweight, packable solution for washing up responsibly. It keeps water contained and makes it easier to follow the 200-foot rule.

Setup Steps:

1. Unfold the Basin: Choose a level spot at least 200 feet from water sources.

2. Fill with Water: Carry water using a pot or hydration bladder. Don’t fill the basin directly from the river.

3. Add Soap (if needed): Use minimal biodegradable soap—more on that below.

4. Wash Up: Use a bandana or quick-dry cloth to sponge yourself clean.

5. Dishwashing? Use a mesh strainer to remove food particles before scattering the greywater.

6. Dump Carefully: Scatter water over a wide area to speed up evaporation and reduce soil saturation.

Popular Options:

Sea to Summit Kitchen Sink (5L–20L)
MSR Folding Bowl
REI Co-op Camp Basin

Biodegradable Soap: Less Is More

Even the best biodegradable soap should never be used directly in natural water. Dilution is key—not only to protect the environment but also to stretch your supply on long trips.

Dilution Guidelines:

Standard Ratio: 1 part soap to 60–80 parts water.
Visual Cue: For a 1-liter basin, add just a few drops (1/4 teaspoon) of soap.
Tip: Use a small dropper bottle to avoid over-pouring.

Best Practices:

Use soap only when truly needed—often, water and friction are enough.
Wash hands or dishes with plain water first, then use diluted soap if necessary.
Rinse items in clean water collected away from the source, not in the river.

Recommended Soaps: